Posted on Aug 03
Panthers' Jonathon Brooks doubtful for opener, recovery timeline around Week 3 or 4
u/alex •
Carolina Panthers rookie running back Jonathon Brooks is unlikely to play in the preseason and his availability for the season opener is doubtful due to an ACL injury. However, the team is taking a cautious approach with his recovery, prioritizing his long-term future.
Why it matters: The absence of Brooks during the preseason and potentially the early regular season impacts the Panthers' running game and their offensive strategy.
- Coach Dave Canales on Brooks' importance: "This is a guy with a long career in front of him, somebody we think really high about, so we want to be really smart with him."
What's new: Brooks, the highly regarded second-round pick, underwent surgery to repair his ACL injury and is projected to return around Week 3 or 4 of the regular season.
- Coach Dave Canales on Brooks' timeline: "Something around Week 3 or 4 made sense."
Yes, but: Despite the setback, the Panthers have confidence in their interim running backs, Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, to handle the rushing duties until Brooks is ready.
What to watch: As the regular season approaches, the progress of Brooks' rehabilitation will be closely monitored to determine when he can be activated from the active/non-football injury list.
What's next: The Panthers are committed to ensuring Brooks makes a full recovery before returning to the field to avoid any potential setbacks or complications.
- Coach Dave Canales on bringing Brooks back: "Physically, this is a guy that can make an impact for us, so we want to be really smart about when we bring him back in."
The bottom line: Although the Panthers will miss Brooks' immediate contributions, they are prioritizing his long-term health and potential impact on the team's offense. The focus is on making a calculated return rather than rushing his recovery process.